About the Department

History

The Forsyth County Fire Department began in March 1951 when, at the urging of County
Commissioner Wally Dunham, Forsyth County hired its first paid firefighters. These
personnel responded to fires in the rural areas of the county, inspected the public
schools and worked with various community groups to help organize volunteer fire
departments. Twelve volunteer fire departments were organized between 1951 and 1954.
In August 1954 the County appointed its first Fire Marshall, who was to head the
county fire department and coordinate the activities of the volunteer fire departments.
Today there are 18 career volunteer fire departments providing fire and rescue services
to the citizen’s of Forsyth County.

Mission Statement

To coordinate, supervise and manage the fire and rescue protection program in Forsyth
County by: